The shaggy songbird shuns the gazes

The late-blooming songwriter didn't even appear to be having much fun, despite the sell-out crowd made up of couples clearly devoted to his music.

If his demeanour was at odds with his sales, at least it suited his mesmerising songs. Much has been made of LaMontagne's back story - it takes in drink, depression and carpentry - and his shyness was self-evident.

Seated side-on to the audience, he clutched his acoustic guitar like a security blanket, although there was a drummer, bassist and pedal steel guitarist to take the pressure off.

He growled his way through Be Here Now, the opening song from his new album, and received wild applause. But it went unacknowledged - as did the shouts from the audience to "say something". Eventually, though, LaMontagne cracked.

"There's one very satisfied customer," he said mockingly. "The guy that keeps telling me to give him something. Come right here my friend, I'll give you something."

His signature tune Trouble was oddly subdued and seemed to hold back from the high notes, but LaMontagne had much more to offer: superior new songs, an adroit band and his soulful voice.

Ultimately, he overcame his shyness to declare - haltingly - his love for the fans. But he was probably relieved to be leaving their gaze, too.

Ray LaMontagne & The Pariah Dogs
HMV Apollo
Queen Caroline Street, W6 9QH